Trying to decide between teaching at an eikaiwa or becoming an ALT in Japan? Both are popular English teaching jobs for foreigners in Japan, but they offer very different work environments, schedules, and lifestyles. Choosing the right one depends on your goals—whether that’s flexible hours, steady pay, or cultural immersion.
This guide compares Eikaiwa (English conversation schools) and ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) jobs in Japan—covering salary, working hours, teaching style, and career growth. You’ll also learn where to find openings on Jobs in Japan.
1. What Is an Eikaiwa?
An eikaiwa is a private English conversation school. Students range from children to adults, and lessons emphasize speaking and listening skills rather than grammar. You might teach one-on-one or small groups in a structured, business-like environment.
- Schedule: Afternoon to evening (often 1:00–9:00 PM)
- Salary: ¥250,000–¥300,000/month
- Visa Sponsorship: Usually provided
- Common Employers: AEON, ECC, Berlitz, Gaba
Pros:
- Structured curriculum and materials provided
- Year-round hiring, often in urban areas
- Opportunities to teach adults and professionals
Cons:
- Evening and weekend hours
- Sales pressure (upselling lessons or trial classes)
- Limited vacation days
2. What Is an ALT?
An Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) works in public schools alongside Japanese teachers. Lessons focus on pronunciation, speaking, and cultural activities. You may rotate among several schools within one district.
- Schedule: Weekdays, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Salary: ¥230,000–¥280,000/month
- Visa Sponsorship: Provided by dispatch company or Board of Education
- Common Employers: Interac, Altia Central, Borderlink
Pros:
- Stable schedule with weekends and holidays off
- Immersive cultural experience in Japanese schools
- Opportunities to live in regional Japan
Cons:
- Less control over lesson plans
- Lower starting pay than eikaiwa
- Rural placements can mean limited nightlife or social opportunities
EFL Magazine: The Definitive Guide to Being an Assistant Language Teacher in Japan
3. Key Differences at a Glance
| Category | Eikaiwa | ALT |
| Work Hours | Afternoon–Evening, often weekends | Weekdays, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM |
| Students | Children, adults, business professionals | Elementary to high school students |
| Salary | ¥250,000–¥300,000/month | ¥230,000–¥280,000/month |
| Teaching Style | Conversational, structured lessons | Team-teaching with Japanese teachers |
| Time Off | Limited vacation days | Public holidays and school breaks |
| Best For | People who enjoy customer service and flexible teaching | Those seeking cultural immersion and regular hours |
4. Which Job Is Better for You?
- Choose Eikaiwa if: You prefer structured lessons, urban locations, and teaching a wide range of students from children to adults.
- Choose ALT if: You want stable weekday hours, Japanese school experience, and cultural immersion.
Some teachers even start as ALTs to get classroom experience and later move to eikaiwa or international schools for career growth.
5. Finding Eikaiwa and ALT Jobs in Japan
You can find both eikaiwa and ALT openings year-round on Jobs in Japan. You can browse by filtering on “Education, Teaching, Training, Coaching” under Job Category or search using keywords such as “ALT”, “eikaiwa” or “international school.” You can also check if visa sponsorship is available on the listings.
Many employers list positions directly, so you can apply without a recruiter. Whether you’re new to Japan or an experienced teacher, Jobs in Japan offers hundreds of openings updated daily.
Final Thoughts
Both eikaiwa and ALT jobs offer rewarding ways to live and teach in Japan. The best choice depends on your lifestyle preferences—urban vs rural, flexible hours vs structured schedule, adults vs kids. Either way, you’ll gain valuable teaching and cultural experience in one of the world’s most fascinating countries.
Start your search for English teaching jobs in Japan today at Jobs in Japan and find the role that fits you best.
